Andhra cuisine has a vast array of brinjal recipes. Today’s brinjal curry is a classic Andhra vegetarian recipe that is prepared on special occasions and can be considered for a party vegetarian menu. Quite a few Andhra vantalu (dishes) call for the use of sesame seeds.

Typical South Indian style vegetable stir fry, Carrot beans vepudu, is healthy, easy to make with perfect combination of flavors. Curry leaves, hing and fresh coconut are my top most ‘essential’ ingredients whenever I venture out to make this vegetable fry recipe.

I usually pair this protein rich salad with fresh fruit juice which makes for a filling complete meal. I created it on a whim one day and it has been a regular ever since. Easy to make, rich in texture and flavor.

One of the best vegetarian recipe I have had in a long time is a stuffed okra with its origins in Gujarat. Tarla Dalal’s recipe for a Gujarati stuffed bhindi is simply out of the world. Those who hate okra will definitely fall in love with it when they try Bhindi Sambhariya.

A super easy no bake dessert that you can whip up in minutes is a fridge cake. Few days ago I prepared a no bake chocolate biscuit cake and it was all gone within a few hours. Not much of a recipe. Just four ingredients – biscuits, butter, golden syrup and chocolate go into its making.

Though I am not too fond of cabbage, I find myself enjoying a North Indian style cabbage dry saute that calls for the inclusion of potato. Its a fabulous combination and a drizzle of lemon juice gives it a flavor that is so satisfying. Its amazing how the simplest of recipes are the most flavorful.

I’m a podi freak. I keep trying various podi recipes that have their origins in different regions of South India. One such podi that is aromatic with a unique flavor is Milagai Podi. The secret ingredient here is roasted sesame seeds. Sprinkle some of this magic spice powder over dosas or idlis along with a generous drizzle of gingelly oil or ghee.

Last week was a rain filled week. On one such rainy day, I prepared spinach soup. I sat in the veranda relishing a bowl of vibrant green spinach soup, watching the rain and waiting for Nehal to come home from school.

I love the combination of flavors in today’s stuffed ridge gourd recipe. Nutty sesame seeds, coconut and tangy tamarind are the secret weapons that lend that perfect flavor to the Gutti beerakaya curry. Those allergic to peanuts can substitute with melon seeds or cashew nuts.

Its no secret that I love Indian Chinese fusion cuisine. On many a special occasion its Indian Chinese fusion food for starters and Sweet Corn Chicken Soup is a must. Nehal is extremely fond of American Chop Suey and I created magic at my stove, replicating the restaurant flavor. He loved it and am one happy mommy!